3 Questions to Ask When Deciding Between a Technical School and a Career-Focused College

High school graduation is right around the corner: Do you have a plan?

There are many paths you can take after high school is complete. You can earn a bachelor’s degree, associate degree, certification, or pursue dynamic training in your field. You can attend a liberal arts college, a career-focused college, a trade or technical school, or dive right into the workforce.

Perhaps you have career goals already in place. From nursing or policing, to manufacturing, there are many options for you to continue your education and get on the path to the career of your dreams. If you have a specific job in mind, you may be deciding between a technical school and a career-focused college, two institutions that can train you in your preferred area of study.

In a technical school, students enroll in their chosen course of study and take very specific classes that prepare them for a very particular job. Many people choose a technical school as it gives them the chance to receive proper training without taking a large number of general, required courses. Typical programs you will find at a technical school include auto mechanics, HVAC training, culinary arts, computer technology, and healthcare.

Similarly, career-focused colleges offer students a formal coursework fully dedicated to their future career interests. Career-focused colleges promote hands-on experience, in-field internships, and career placement services through programs like criminal justice, homeland security, registered nursing, and dental hygiene. At a career-focused college, you can earn a diploma, a certificate, an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree, depending on your major.

How will you choose what career-driven college is best for you? Ask yourself the following questions before choosing a technical school or a career-focused college in Connecticut.

What kind of career or technical training do you want to pursue?

First and foremost, your career goals should dictate what path you choose following your high school graduation. If you haven’t already, try to think carefully about what you want to do with your life. What are your natural skills and talents? What are your hobbies and interests? What job field most interests you? What type of work environment do you see yourself in? Before you fully commit to your career choice, you will want to make sure it is one-hundred percent right for you. Research all aspects of the industry and the position you desire to best guide your choice.

What programs does the school offer that align with your desired career path?

After making your career choice, your next step will be to research various colleges that offer your desired program. If you desire a career in medical assisting, for example, find a reputable school that offers medical assistant certification and training. If you wish to become a nurse, find a school that not only offers a registered nursing degree, but also an accredited RN-to-BSN program that will allow you to continue your nursing education down the road.

If you have a certain career or technical college in mind at this time, contact the school to inquire more about their training and program offerings. You will want to ensure that the school can fully prepare you for the particular job you’re seeking. Job requirements vary depending on the field. Some jobs require a license or certificate. Other entry-level positions require a bachelor’s degree. Find out what you will need to score your dream job by asking about your field’s educational requirements.

Is financial assistance or student aid available to you?

Before choosing a technical school or career-focused college, ask about the total price of tuition. How much will your desired training cost? Will it vary depending on the type of certification, degree, or diploma you earn? Are there any items that are excluded from that given price, such as books, equipment, or other related materials?

Once you have a good idea of expenses, ask about the student aid available to you. Any college you are considering should aim to keep you on a path towards success, no matter the cost. A good career-focused college will not only lend you funds, but also help you understand your given financial package.

There are many types of financial assistance or student aid you can receive from a career-focused college. For example, Goodwin College offers scholarships, grants, federal loans, work study jobs, and veteran’s educational benefits.

While these three questions all play a significant role in choosing the right career-focused school, there are many other questions you should ask before taking your next step. Before choosing a school, ensure that it is accredited, licensed institution with programs fit and flexible to your wants and needs. Also ask about the various internships, in-field experiences, and job placement assistance that the college offers.

At Goodwin College, we design our career-focused programs to help students meet all of their goals at an accelerated pace. We take pride in the strong employment outcomes of our graduates, and look forward to helping you score your dream job as well.

To learn more about Goodwin’s various program offerings, visit goodwin.edu/majors or call us today.